Manchester United's £25million sale of David Beckham to Real Madrid will open the way for the Reds to try and lure Harry Kewell to Old Trafford.

Leeds have offered the Australian ace a new contract worth £48,000 per week but Kewell has so far failed to put pen to paper.

The player's agent, Bernie Mandic, met United chairman, Professor John McKenzie, last Friday with further talks planned. If Kewell does not sign the new deal then he will be able to leave on a Bosman free transfer next summer.

The 24-year-old told and Australian radio station earlier this month that he would be prepared to see out his final year at United but Leeds do not intend that happening.

Earlier this week, McKenzie said Kewell would probably talk to Arsene Wenger later this week over a possible move to Arsenal after the Gunners made an official approach.

However, Sir Alex Ferguson is a long-time admirer of Kewell and now has the cash to make a move.

The Reds manager paid him a massive compliment three years ago by enthusing: "He's good, very good. It's a pity he's Australian because he's the best young player in England."

Ferguson could be frustrated in his advances, however, with Kewell's agent Mandic revealing that the Aussie's future will not be decided by money.

Mandic said: "Harry is not a player who has chased money in the past and he is not a player whowill chase money in the future.

"The next phase of Harry's career is one that will be best for himandmake him the best possible player. It will not be money-driver otherwise he would have left for Old Trafford by now."

Ferguson had hoped to make Paris St Germain's Ronaldinho his first summer signing but the Brazilian now favours a move to Real Madrid.

Ronaldinho's cooling on a move to Old Trafford now leaves the way open for Ferguson to make his move to try and pip Arsenal for the Aussie's signature.

Meanwhile, Roy Aitken has left Elland Road to link up with former boss David O'Leary at Aston Villa. Peter Reid will now be looking for a new reserve team coach to replace Aitken as he re-models his backroom staff.

Reid has brought in Kevin Blackwell as assistant boss.

Updated: 11:28 Wednesday, June 18, 2003